Fergus Lions Club Receives Conservation Award

Ten years ago — on Sept. 1, 2001 — the Fergus Lions Club started creating a special place of remembrance on the banks of the Grand River. It is a place where 350 trees of many species are now planted as a tribute to the lives and memories of special people. There are also 15 memorial benches. 

The Fergus Lions Club is one of five recipients of a 2011 Grand River Watershed Award for creating the Grand River Arboretum and was honoured at an awards presentation on Sept. 15 in Cambridge.

“What was once a little used piece of land has been sensitively transformed into a pleasant, tranquil area,” said Trevor Ashbee, the horticulturalist for Centre Wellington. He drew up a list of 50 tree species and donors could select from the list.

Don Doyle came up with the idea and Joe Brooks became the driving force to get it going. Work crews turned up on Saturday mornings to plant and maintain the area. About 150 people attended the official opening held 10 years ago this month (September 2001). The entrance is on the south side of Colquhourn Street between Beatty Line South and Johnson Street  at the south end of Beatty Line, just past Calquhoun, west of downtown Fergus. There is a wall of plaques of the many individuals and groups who have made contributions.

The Grand River Arboretum was a project of the Fergus Lions Club who held many Saturday morning work days to plant and landscape the property.“It really brought the club together. Every time we did something there was all kinds of stuff to eat and drink,” said Doyle.

Towards the centre of the park is the Lion’s Tree — a big old tree that stands strong and tall among those that have been planted over the past 10 years. “The beauty and quietness of this spot so close to the hustle and bustle of the town is a comfort and a refuge for family members who have planted trees in remembrance of loved ones,” says resident Roberta Vliestra of Fergus.

The land once belonged to the Grand River Conservation Authority, but is now owned by Centre Wellington Township, while Lion’s Club members look after the maintenance.

Now the project is complete and no new trees will be planted.  The Grand Valley Trail is next to the arboretum and the trail leads down the hill and along the Canadian Heritage Grand River.

By Janet Baine, GRCA Communications Specialist

Congratulations from Southern Ontario Outdoors to the dedicated volunteers from the Fergus Lions Club that are preserving our great outdoors heritage for future generations.  For more information about great outdoor activities in Fergus and Elora visit the Elora/Fergus website.

Brantford – A Treasure Trove of Outdoor Activities

When we think of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, paddling, and cycling our minds usually tend to wander to remote vistas and wilderness solitude. You know the old saying, "Perception is reality!" Well, the reality is that you often don't have to go very far to find the perception of wilderness solitude. In fact the City of Brantford is one such hidden Southern Ontario gem.

I always thought of Brantford as the home of Alexander Graham Bell, Joseph Brant, and of course Wayne Gretzky, but I was thrilled to discover another side to Brantford. Nestled along the banks of the Grand River Brantford is a treasure trove of activity for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the highlights include: the Grand Valley Trail, Brant Conservation Area, and the Grand River Exceptional Waters Region. Fishing in this area is second to none with an abundance of species from small mouth bass, pike, and channel cats, to walleye and rainbow trout. There are many access points and the river can be fished from shore in many locations, or wade and cast the shallows. If you're looking for something a bit more leisurely you can drift the lazy current in a canoe or kayak.

Whether you hike, fish, or paddle, the perception of wilderness solitude is very real, especially on and around the Exceptional Waters region that runs from Brantford to Paris. Even though you are surrounded by everything from towns and cities to farmland and major highways, you'll likely never know it. All you will experience is that tranquil feeling that only comes from a wilderness experience, but with all the advantages of being close to a major urban area.

Depending on your interests and pocket book, accommodations range from 4 star hotels to B&Bs to tranquil campsites along the Grand River, and local attractions are abundant and varied. If you're feeling lucky why not head to the OLG Casino, or take a side trip to the Canadian Military Heritage Museum, Chiefswood National Historic Site, Bell Homestead National Historic Site, the Woodland Cultural Centre, or take in a show at the Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts.

Be sure to put the City of Brantford on your list of must visit places in Southern Ontario.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Beaver Valley, An Autumn Delight

The Beaver Valley in Grey County has always been a well know destination for downhill skiers, with resorts like Talisman and the Beaver Valley Ski Club being the primary destinations. Well don't leave all the fun to the downhill skiers! This is a must visit destination for hikers of all skill levels.

Walters Falls, Eugenia Falls, Old Baldy, and the Duncan Crevice Caves are just some of the vistas you will enjoy along this portion of the Bruce Trail. The trail is rugged with lots of hills and valleys so be sure you are physically prepared for a vigorous outing. There are many side trails and loops that make for a great afternoon hike. Most are noted in the Bruce Trail Reference Guide available at many Canadian bookstores. This guide not only shows the Bruce Trail and side trails it also references parking areas, camping areas, and points of interest.

There are plenty of accommodations available in the area ranging from campgrounds to luxury hotels, including many private cottages and chalets for rent. If you're looking for a unique place to stay that will comfortably hold and sleep a dozen or more adults check out the Riverdale Schoolhouse www.riverdaleschoolhouse.vpweb.ca or call Peter Connor at 519-546-5848. This is a renovated schoolhouse from the late 1800's in a very private setting only a couple of miles from the town of Markdale and very close to Bruce Trail access points and Old Baldy. Another great venue is The Falls Inn at Walter's Falls http://www.thefallsinn.com . The Bruce Trail runs right beside the property. This is a bit more upscale for those that like to be pampered at the end of a long day of hiking.

Autumn is in the air and mother nature will soon be performing her colorful transition from summer to winter. A fall hike in the Beaver Valley when the leaves are turning is a treat you can't afford to miss, and don't forget your camera.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

 

Singing Sands – A Sensory Experience

If your Southern Ontario outdoors adventures take you to the top of the Bruce Peninsula don't miss the chance to visit Singing Sands just south of Tobermory on the Lake Huron side. Just off of Hwy #6 this wonderful natural area maintained by Parks Canada located at the foot of Dorcas Bay has something for everyone. Small children will enjoy the sand beach and shallow water, while nature lovers will be treated to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells.

The crunch of gravel in the ample parking lot soon turns to the soft silence of damp sand. You can wander down to the water's edge where there are always seagulls strolling in the shallow water; listen to the gurgle of the creek as it makes its way to the beach; or gaze in wonder at the vast beauty of this spectacular venue.

Next your footsteps echo the soft hollow knock of wood as you stroll along the well maintained boardwalk and gaze over a sensitive protected "fen" where you will see a variety of flora and fauna unique to the Northern Bruce Peninsula. Pitcher plants, venus fly trap, ferns, and orchids are just some of the treasures that will great you along this self-guided walk. When you're finished take a stroll along the bush trails and bask in the natural beauty of pines, cedars, and open meadows.

Be sure to scoop up and waste that your four legged friend might leave behind, but the Parks Canada crew have made this easy with doggie bag dispensers located in the parking lot. There are also modern clean washrooms onsite.

Spend an hour or spend the day but don't miss this great sensory experience on the Northern Bruce Peninsula in Southern Ontario.

 

© Lloyd Fridenburg - 2010

Successful End to End Hiking in Southern Ontario

Have you ever sat back and looked maps of a trail system and thought how nice it would be to walk the entire trail from end to end. Your dreams are soon dashed when the details of travel, parking, distance, etc. start to creep into your thoughts as well. It can be quite daunting to look at something like the Bruce Trail that runs all the way from Niagara Falls to Tobermory; a distance of nearly 900 km. There are a few tips that can definitely make this a practical reality instead of the impossible dream.

Think Small

One mistake that novice and experienced hikers alike often make is to tackle too much at once. Remember it's all about the journey, not the destination. Break your hike into small manageable hikes and don't get too hung up on a specific timeframe. As soon as your venture starts to feel like work, or the destination has become the only thing that really matters your chances of completing your journey are lessened.

Join a Hiking Club

Southern Ontario has an abundance of hiking clubs and organizations. They can offer a lot of knowledgeable guidance from veteran hikers. Many clubs like the Grand Valley Trails Association offer planned end to end hikes under the guidance of qualified hike leaders.

Carpool and Leapfrog

Even if you elect not to join a formal club you can still attain your goals by recruiting some friends that have a similar interest and planning a bunch of shorter hikes along your chosen route. Two or more cars are the best way to get to and from your start and finish point. One car is dropped off at the finish; those hikers are picked up and taken to the start where the second car is left. At the end of the day the process is reversed.

Use a GPS

This is a very efficient way to ensure that everyone arrives at the correct start and finish points. It can also be a good way to check your progress throughout the day. And, even though trails in Southern Ontario are generally well marked, it is possible to wander off the main trail. A GPS will quickly help you determine your error and get you back on track.

So as you see with a bit of planning and forethought, completing an end to end hike of a trail system, regardless of the length, is a realistic and practical goal.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Climate Change and Wildlife Habitat

These days we often here talk of climate change and the potential impact that global warming will have on our society. But what about the affect of climate change on wildlife and wildlife habitat.

According to Dr. Paul James, Director of Environmental Monitoring for the Province of Saskatchewan and a research fellow at the University of Regina, many of our wildlife species are completely dependant on a very narrow band of acceptable climactic and environmental conditions in order to survive. Serious study of the effects of climate change on habitat must be undertaken and planning models must be tuned to reflect the new reality.

In short, when an ecosystem undergoes a dramatic change it can no longer sustain resident and migratory wildlife populations. New species of plant and animal life take over and indigenous species disappear.

So why don’t animals and birds simply move as their habitat changes? The fact is that they do, and much can be learned by the studying the slow migration of species into regions where they were previously unknown. But what happens if they can’t move? Take the animals and birds of the northern tundra for example. They rely on food sources that are only produced in regions of permafrost. As the permafrost vanishes due to sustained periods of higher than normal temperatures new types of vegetation will take over. These species simply cannot move further north to find food sources because it will simply cease to exist.

Species like the ptarmigan, arctic fox, and polar bear will simply cease to exist. And guess what? It is very likely to happen in our lifetime. Many scientists firmly believe that this is a “when”, rather than an “if” scenario.

There are other fragile ecosystems like the prairie pothole region that runs from the north central US through Southern Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and into Southern Alberta. This ecosystem provides a stopover for almost every migratory bird along the Mississippi flyway accounting for 80% of the waterfowl in North America. This ecosystem is already at risk due to improper farming and development practices. Over the next 50 years the potholes that provide a safe secure stopover for a wide variety of waterfowl will simply cease to exist.

Don’t take my word for it! Do your own research and form your own opinion, but you will find that in spite of government rhetoric many of these changes are inevitable. Dr. James stated “Wildlife studies must now focus on how to plan for the new reality and forget about sustainable management models of the past.”

While governments dither, wildlife habitat disappears!

Visit Southern Ontario Outdoors. Your source for news, information, and destinations related to your favorite outdoors activities throughout Southern Ontario.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Optics for your Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re hiking the rugged Bruce Trail, paddling the Grand river, or hunting in the farmlands of Southern Ontario a high quality pair of binoculars or spotting scope should be an essential part of your outdoors gear.

There are two schools of thought when it comes to binoculars; compact or full size. If you can manage a full size pair, that definitely is the way to go. Although you can buy some very high quality compact binoculars that will get the job done, the only real advantage they offer is the fact that they are indeed compact.

Full sized glasses allow for a larger objective lens; this is the end closest to your subject, providing the viewer with a crisper clearer image while capturing more light. This is particularly important during those times just before dawn and just after sunset when light begins to diminish.

People often get confused over the meaning of those numbers like 10x32 or 8x40 but I assure you there is no real mystery involved. The first number simply refers to magnification. For example, if the first number is 10 the object will appear to be 10 times larger than if it were viewed with the naked eye. The second number refers to the diameter of the objective lens. Again, this is the end closest to your subject. The larger the number, the greater the size; generally, bigger is better, but remember that overall size and weight will also increase.

Because of their high magnification and large objective lens, spotting scopes change your experience from that of a casual observer to a close-up participant. If you have the means to pack a scope you’ll be able to check out that trophy before you make the long trek up the mountainside, only to find that it wasn’t really a trophy after all. Serious birders will find that they are able to make highly accurate observations from a much longer distance than with a pair of binoculars.

Don’t be fooled by low cost knock-offs. In terms of quality you really do get what you pay for and there is no substitute for high quality glass and superior craftsmanship. Choose wisely and you’ll have a great outdoors accessory that will last a lifetime; and more.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

GPS for Off-Road Navigation

The Global Positioning System, generally known as GPS has evolved into an accurate easy to use navigational aid for professionals and casual outdoors persons alike. Consumer GPS devices can be broken into three main categories; general purpose, automobile, and marine. For the purpose of this dissertation I’ll focus on the general purpose GPS, however they all work on the same basic principle; they are simply configured to optimize certain tasks.

In simple terms GPS units tune in to signals being sent from NAVSTAR satellites orbiting 12,000 miles above the surface of the earth. The accuracy of your GPS at any given time and place will vary depending on how many satellites you are tracking. The more satellites you are tracking at a given location the higher the degree of accuracy. The GPS then relates the signals from the satellites you are tracking to a specific position on earth letting you know, often within feet, where you are.

Even low end GPS units contain the basic functions necessary for navigation. They not only tell you where you are at a given time but allow you to save waypoints. A waypoint is simply a specific geographical location. For example you will want to mark your camp as a waypoint and if you are hiking or hunting, you will likely mark the location of your vehicle as a waypoint. You will then periodically mark trail crossings and other points of interest you may pass so you can easily return to them at some time in the future.

A set of waypoints can be saved to create a route, allowing you to follow a specific path over and over again. Or, you can use the “GO TO” function to select a specific waypoint – perhaps your car – that you want to head for. The arrow on your GPS will keep pointing to the waypoint until you reach it. You will also get information like distance traveled, distance to waypoint, and average speed. Even if you need to make a detour around a marsh or lake the arrow on your GPS will always point in the direction of the destination you have selected.

Higher end units give you the ability to download topographical maps, road maps, and charts directly to your GPS unit. You will not only see your location and waypoints but you will see them relative to the map you are using.

I would like to leave you with a word of caution before you head confidently into the wilderness with your new GPS. Sometimes I think GPS technology has become too easy to use, in fact it has become so easy to use that the average outdoors person is now able to get themselves into trouble in half the amount of time. That’s right, don’t use a GPS for wilderness travel unless you know how to use a topographical map and compass, and have them with you.

Here are a few cautions to keep in mind when using a GPS:

1. A GPS does not work, or may give inaccurate readings, under heavy tree cover!
2. A GPS does not always function well in river bottoms surrounded by high hills or cliffs!
3. A GPS can be affected by dense cloud cover and adverse weather conditions!
4. A GPS requires power to work! Loose you batteries and you’ve lost your ability to navigate with a GPS.
5. Use the neck lanyard or wrist strap. Most units don’t float.

The portable GPS has opened opportunities for outdoors lovers that were only dreamed of 15 years ago. I highly recommend that a GPS becomes a part of your outdoor gear, but learn how to use it and never head into the wilderness without a compass and topographical map. Getting lost in Southern Ontario farmland is an inconvenience; getting lost in our huge northern forests can be life threatening.

Keep updated with all your Southern Ontario outdoors activities at http://www.sooutdoors.ca/.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Hiking in Southern Ontario? Bee Prepared!

You’ve likely heard the phrase “there are two things you can count on in life; death and taxes.” Well if you venture off the beaten path in Southern Ontario I’ll add a third constant; biting insects.

We have black flies, mosquitoes, deer flies, horse flies, sand fleas, and a host of others just waiting for a tasty human snack. For the most part these miniature carnivores are nothing more than pests whose bites and stings quickly fade into the memory of your outdoor experience. But then there are bees and wasps! Bee stings in the bush, particularly in remote areas, should never be taken lightly. They’re not only painful but can, in rare circumstances, be life threatening.

If you or a companion sustain a bee sting the first thing you should do is clean the area and check to see if the stinger is still in the wound…it will often appear as a small black dot. Remove the stinger by scraping. Never squeeze the stinger as this will inject more venom into the wound. If you have ice or even cold water, put it on the sting to ease the initial pain. An antihistamine pill or anti-itch cream can be used to ease the pain and itch.

Always watch a bee sting victim for signs of nausea, dizziness, slurred speech, drowsiness, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms appear call an ambulance or get the victim to a hospital as quickly as possible. Although the vast majority of people exhibit only localized discomfort, allergic reactions can be very serious and even deadly. People who know they are allergic to bee venom should always have an allergy kit (EpiPen) with them and wear a medic alert bracelet. But even those that have never displayed an allergic reaction to bee stings can suddenly become allergic. This is bad enough in a populated area, but if you’re miles from medical help it can be deadly.

Canoeists, campers, hikers, fishermen, hunters, or anyone that spends time in the wilderness should make a bee sting kit an essential part of their first aid kit…and know how to use it. What do I consider to be the wilderness; basically anyplace where you can’t reach medical help (clinic, doctor, hospital, first aid center, etc.) within a short period of time. Three quarters of bee sting victims that die from anaphylactic shock die within 45 minutes of being stung. Immediate attention is essential.

Remember that a minor mishap within easy access of medical attention can become a life threatening ordeal in the wilderness. Take time to learn the necessary skills and stay safe.

So is this cause for major concern when heading off the beaten path? I would say it is something to be aware of and prepared for rather than something to be fearful of. Statistics vary and seem to be a bit unreliable but suffice it to say that there are only between 40 and 100 deaths each year in all of North America. So I would say your odds are pretty good. Now get out and enjoy our great Southern Ontario outdoors.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Aliens Living in Southern Ontario

No you don’t need to worry about meeting ET or Klingons while paddling down the Grand River – at least I’m pretty sure – but as we approach Biodiversity Day on May 22, which is held exactly one month after Earth Day, we need to become more aware of what we are doing – and have done – to the natural order of things in Southern Ontario.

According to Biodiversity Education and Awareness Network (BEAN) biodiversity is “life in all its variety: over 14 million species found from mountain top to deep-sea vent. But it is much more. Those species connect, and interact. Those interactions create communities and systems, and those systems provide goods and services such as oxygen production, pollination, water filtration and storage, pest control, food production, carbon storage and erosion control.”

Problems arise when those natural interactions are altered. This occurs when “alien species” (those species not normally found in a particular ecosystem, often referred to as invasive species) are introduced. In Southern Ontario this has occurred as a result of both intentional and non intentional introduction of foreign plants, animals, birds, and aquatic species into our well balanced, yet fragile, ecosystems.

Some of these more invasive “alien” squatters are:
Zebra Mussels – arrived in the ballast tanks of foreign freighters.
Round Goby – arrived in the ballast tanks of foreign freighters.
Purple Loosestrife – introduced by European settlers as ornamental flowers.
Rusty Crayfish – migrated or introduced from the Ohio River valley.
Garlic Mustard – introduced by European settlers.
Asian Long-Horned Beetle – arrived in foreign hardwood lumber; likely shipping crates.

So what can Ontario outdoors enthusiasts do to prevent the spread of invasive species?

Join an organization like BEAN that promotes biodiversity initiatives.
Educate yourself about the various invasive species in Southern Ontario.
Always use locally caught minnows for bait. Never bring them from another area.
Always use local firewood.
Always wash the bottom of your watercraft before launching it in a new waterbody.
Never pick or plant invasive species like purple loosestrife or garlic mustard.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll be doing your part to stop the spread of “aliens” in Southern Ontario.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Toronto Sportsmen's Show Moving to New Digs

It hit me like a hammer; the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show is moving! That’s right folks after 63 years at the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) grounds Southern Ontario’s largest outdoors show, the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show, is moving to the Toronto Convention Centre.

I’m going to give this a while to sink in before wading in with my personal opinions of the move but I’m sure there will not be many fence sitters when it comes to the new venue. For those in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) the Convention Centre is very accessible and convenient for those that use public transit. For those of us coming from out of town it’s nothing more than a logistical nightmare. Oh well, decisions are made and this was likely not a knee-jerk reaction.

For now let’s take a trip down memory lane.

The Toronto Sportsmen’s Show has been a part of my life for just about as long as I can remember, so that means that I’m only a few years shy of having been there from the beginning. My grandparents lived in the east end of Toronto when I was growing up so events like the Sportsmen’s Show provided a great, low cost way for my parents to keep us kids amused for a few hours when we made the trip from Wingham to the big city.

Up until a few years ago the Toronto Sportsman’s Show occupied the Coliseum building at the CNE. Although the larger venue provided by the Direct Energy Building was greatly needed, it did in my opinion, loose all of its character and became just another show when the move took place.

Some of my fondest memories are of jostling crowds, the smell of hay in the arena, creaking floorboards, and a multitude of stairways and hidden corridors. And then there was the ever present smell of pipe smoke. Those were the days when Brigham pipes used to sell their factory seconds for a very cheap price and were set up right across the aisle from a tobacco vendor. No, I’m not a smoker and certainly don’t advocate smoking, but that was a different era and like everyone else I became a pipe smoker for a day. To this day the smell of pipe smoke conjures up images of camping supplies, fishing tackle, and creaking floors.

I remember buying my first upscale fishing rod there; it was a Berkley Bionix and when you bought one you got a Berkley Lightning Rod for free. I never did care for the Bionix, but the Lightning Rod has accompanied me on every fishing trip since the mid 70’s and has landed – and lost – tons of fish.

Over the years we have bought tents, backpacks, fishing tackle, and every new gadget on the market. You know, now that I think of it the move to the Convention Centre may not be that much of a stretch. The move from the Coliseum for me was like loosing an old, albeit smoky, friend.

The great outdoors is still very much alive in Southern Ontario and the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show, regardless of the venue, will always be a memorable part of it.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

5 Key Muscle Groups and Exercises for Hikers

Spring is in the air and the hiking boots are starting to do the happy dance in the closet. You just can’t wait for the muddy trails to dry so you can get out and enjoy our wonderful Southern Ontario hiking trails. Soon the dark grey of late winter will explode into a hundred shades of green broken only by patches of beautiful wild flowers.

Now is the time to get your body in shape for the coming hiking season. The extent to which you need to do some pre season training largely depends on the kind of trails, and distance, you’re planning to hike. Here are a few muscle groups to pay attention to and some exercises that will help make your hikes safer and more enjoyable.

1. Abdominals
Crunches are a great strengthening exercise for your upper abs. Lay flat on your back with your knees bent and you hands on the side of your head near your ears. Keep your eyes focused on a point on the ceiling as you raise your shoulders about 8” off the floor and lower again. Work up to about 5 sets of 20 reps.

For the lower abs leg raises are very effective. Lay flat on the floor and support your lower back by placing your hands under your lower back; then with your legs straight raise your legs about 1 ft off the floor. Work up to 5 sets of 10 and remember, don’t let your feet touch the floor until you’re finished a complete set.

2. Back Muscles
Back muscles are a key component of core strength and yet the most overlooked. Strong abs and weak back muscles can cause poor posture and walking form. To strengthen your back muscles, lay on your stomach with your arms and legs extended in front of you. Keep your arms and legs straight; lift your arms and legs off the floor at the same time. Work up to about 5 sets of 10.

3. Quadriceps and Hamstrings
The quads are the large muscle group on the upper front of your leg while hamstrings are the large muscles at the back of the upper leg. Both are a key component of your forward motion and must be kept strong and flexible. Squats are a great way to work your quads and hamstrings. Stand straight with your feet a bit more than shoulder width apart. Keep your back straight and squat down until your thighs are parallel with the ground (or as far as you can comfortably manage) then return to a standing position. Work up to 5 sets of 20 and remember to do these slowly.

4. Calf Muscles
Even if you’re just strolling a groomed rail trail calf muscles can take a real beating. Strengthening your calf muscles is an important aspect of your overall hiker’s workout. Stand flat with your back straight. Lift your heels off the floor and lower. Work up to about 5 sets of 10.

A more advanced exercise would be to place your toes on a step and lower your heels as far as you can, then rise up on your toes for one complete rep. This exercise provides the added benefit of stretching the Achilles tendon as well.

5. Arms and Shoulders
Although there are many exercises that target specific muscles you just can’t beat the simple push-up for overall arm, shoulder, and upper body strengthening. Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders (palms down). Keeping your back and legs straight push up with your arms until they are fully extended. Lower again until your chest is about 2” off the floor and repeat. Work up to about 5 sets of 10. For a less strenuous push-up you can keep your knees on the floor.

Start a simple exercise routine now and you’re muscles will be in prime shape for the rigors of this year’s Southern Ontario hiking season.

Note: Lloyd is an outdoors enthusiast and martial arts instructor with a sound understanding of body mechanics.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Southern Ontario Cold Weather Hiking

What do a sudden thaw, a quick blow dry, and a fast freeze mean to Southern Ontario hikers? Well right not it means that cold weather hiking just became a reality again.

The last thaw pretty much destroyed x-country ski and snowshoe trails but there is an upside. The recent cold snap means that most of those muddy trails have frozen rock solid and approached with a bit of caution will provide all of the enjoyment of a brisk summer hike.

Rail trails may tend to be the best option right now because they are relatively flat and should be mostly dry and ice free. Bush trails and particularly trails that follow a high ridgeline – like many parts of the Bruce Trail – should be treated with caution because there will still be many icy sections and slippery rocks to navigate.

Even though we are back into the deep freeze be very carful when walking near or across ice; particularly river or stream ice. Currents weaken ice and what may appear thick enough to walk on may be irregular and very thin in places.

Regardless of where you go now is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy a late winter hike. It won’t be long before even the rail trails turn into a muddy sloppy mess, so why not get a jump on your spring hike before you need to done hip waders.

If you’re looking for a late winter distraction check out the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show for all the latest hiking gear and some great hiking destinations. The show runs daily from March 18 to 22...during March break.

Don’t forget to check out the new hiking destinations database at Southern Ontario Outdoors. Just click on the region of the map you are interested in and you will be taken to a page where you can select information about trails in that area.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Get Out and Try Southern Ontario Snowshoeing

Ever thought of honing your hiking skills throughout the winter months but got discouraged when you thought of the deep snow covering those beautiful summer trails. Well there is a way to keep in shape, hone your skills, and get outdoors to enjoy our wonderful Southern Ontario winter.

Once a necessity for survival, snowshoeing is now a great winter sport throughout most of Ontario. I guess it always has been but for many years it was necessary to travel north or west into the “snow-belt” to take find enough snow to make snowshoeing worthwhile. The last couple of years with great snow cover throughout Southwestern Ontario that has all changed.

Many of our conservation areas offer marked trails, facilities, and even snowshoe rentals; many are within a short drive of major urban centers. An added bonus is that snowshoeing is relatively inexpensive. Aside from a good pair of snowshoes, no special equipment is required; you can use the same packs and accessories that you would use for hiking in the summer.

I think that many parks and conservation authorities have made the move away from x-country ski trails and are promoting snowshoeing largely because of the high cost of maintaining groomed trails vs. the low revenues they generated. With snowshoe trails being largely maintenance free everyone benefits.

Here are a few places that promote snowshoe trails in Southern Ontario:

• The Grand River Conservation Authority has trails at Pinehurst Lake, Laurel Creek, and Shades Mills. Go to http://www.grandriver.ca/ for more information.
• Ganaraska Forest Center http://www.grca.on.ca/outdoored.htm
• Halton Conservation Authority http://tinyurl.com/bpdxyz

Check out the trails in your local conservation areas and community parks. Snowshoeing in Southern Ontario is a wonderful way to stay in shape and get outdoors during the long winter months.

©2009 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

Hit the Trails on Snowshoes

The depths of our Southern Ontario winter need not be the end of your 2008 hiking season. Instead make it the start of your 2009 season.

What better way to enjoy those crisp, sunny, winter days than soaking in the solitude of the bush with nothing to hear but the crunch and squeak of your snowshoes. Snowshoeing hasn’t been an extremely popular winter pastime, especially in Southwestern Ontario, for many years; mostly due to the lack of snow. But, the last couple of winters have certainly changed all that.

Now you can not only head into the parks, conservation areas, and crown forests on a pair of snowshoes, but you’ll find that you absolutely need them.

Many provincial parks and conservation areas, like those managed by the Grand River Conservation Authority, provide a variety of snowshoe trails of varying length and difficulty levels. As an added bonus many of them offer snowshoe rentals, food concessions, and warm-up areas so you can enjoy several different trails in a day and still have a central location to thaw out your fingers and toes.

If you’re new to the sport, start off on shorter trails and wear layers of clothes. You’ll likely find that snowshoeing is a lot more strenuous than hiking and there is nothing worse than working up a sweat when the temperature is well below the freezing mark.

Check with your local parks and conservation areas and get the family out on the trails this winter. This is the start of your 2009 hiking season.

Lloyd

Happy Holidays from Southern Ontario Outdoors

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my hiking friends. Thanks to all who are following this blog; your comments and suggestions will help me provide you with even better items throughout 2009.

As everyone’s thoughts start to drift to turkey and eggnog take some time to remember all those fantastic hiking memories from 2008. Maybe you completed your first major “end-to-end”, ventured into a wilderness area for the first time, or simply explored the trails in your own community. Now is the time to start researching the trails and regions you want to explore next spring. Within the next month I will have added a large interactive database to http://www.sooutdoors.ca that will make it very easy for you to zoom in on specific destination and trail related information.

Hiking may be over for another year for all but the most ardent hikers, but don’t let winter keep you indoors. From snowshoeing and cross country skiing to a brisk walk just to enjoy the crisp winter air there is plenty you can do to keep active in Southern Ontario throughout the winter months.

“Peace on earth; good will towards men.”

Lloyd

Gift Ideas for the Hiker on Your List

Well it’s that time of year again and if you’re lucky enough to have a hiker on your list the possibilities for gifts are endless.

Whether they're new to the activity or have years of experience, hiker's needs fall into a few general categories. Things to keep them dry – inside and out. Things to keep the bugs off. Things to keep them hydrated. Things to carry things in. Things to keep them safe.

That opens a pretty broad range of potential gift ideas that will range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars.

Keep the bugs off: This would include various types of insect repellents, bug jackets, bug hats, deer fly strips, etc.

Keep Hydrated: This can be something as simple as a Nalgene™ or stainless steel water container, to a water bladder that straps on their back…a bit more pricey but very convenient.

Keep Dry: Socks and undergarments that “wick” perspiration away are excellent. For the outside layers you can blow the budget on a full lightweight Gortex™ rain suit or pick up a good quality poncho that folds up into a small bag for those sudden storms or emergencies. A pair of “gators” to keep snow out of the boots during those late fall or winter hikes are also a good idea.

Packs: Does your hiker take short walks of a couple of kilometers or do they prefer day long hikes that cover 20 k or more? Sometimes a simple “fanny pack” that has a good water bottle holder and a couple of pockets for a few essentials is just the ticket, while those longer hikes require a full backpack with lots of room for lunch, drinks, dry clothes, and rain gear.

Things to Keep Them Safe: Consider things like a walking stick or a pair of walking poles. If they hike in bear country, some bear spray might be appreciated. A small first aid kit is something that every hiker should have, but often forget about.

The ideas are endless, but regardless of what hiking equipment you decide to buy be sure it is high quality and is designed for many years of use.

Lloyd

5 Tips for a Great Fall Hike

Where did the summer go? I must admit that this is somewhat of a depressing day as I sit here looking out at the first snowfall of the year. I don’t really mind winter, but I really hate the coming and going.

However, I’m sure the snow will melt by tomorrow and this is still one of the best times of the year to hit the trails. The bugs are gone, the temperature is great for hiking, and the trails are not nearly as busy.

There are a few precautions you can take at this time of year to make your hike safer and more enjoyable:

1. Be sure your hiking boots are waterproof. A wet foot during a summer hike can be an inconvenience but at this time of year it can be down right miserable.

2. Carry an extra pair of socks (or two) and keep them in a sealed plastic bag.

3. Be sure that someone knows where you are going to hike and a general time that you will return home. Again, getting turned around on a warm summer day is an inconvenience, but after dark the temperature can plummet at this time of year in Southern Ontario.

4. Carry your cell phone. It may not seem real outdoorsy but for the most part cell service is reliable in most parts of Southern Ontario and a cell phone can be a life saver. Just leave it turned off so you can enjoy your fall hiking experience.

5. Watch for ice on the trail. Even though daytime temperatures can be quite pleasant, nighttime temperatures often fall below the freezing point this time of year. And because the sun is lower on the horizon ice on rocks and slopes may not thaw as quickly as the surrounding areas.

Consider these five tips as you head out on the trails and you will have a great fall hiking experience and return home safe.

Have a great fall hike in Southern Ontario,

SD

Southern Ontario Hikers Heaven

As I savor my morning coffee I'm looking out over the waters where Lake Huron and Georgian Bay meet; right at the very top of the Bruce Peninsula.

This is indeed a hiker's paradise. Besides boasting the largest tract of unbroken forest in Southern Ontario the Bruce also has trails ranging from difficult (but very scenic) point to point trails to shorter loop trails. The loop trails range in both length and difficulty and with over 30 loop trails to explore there is always one close at hand.

For more information on the many loop trails between Wiarton and Tobermory visit the Peninsula Bruce Trail Club at www.pbtc.ca. More detailed information about this and other hiking venues will be found at www.sooutdoors.ca very soon. Information is being constantly added and updated so check back often.

SD

Is Summer Finally Here?

Wow, what a summer this has been for hiking. Plenty of rain, hoards of biting insects, fall-like temperatures, what more could a hiker ask for (ha).

It looks like our luck is finally changing as our Southern Ontario summer is starting just in time for fall. I don't know about you but this is my favorite time of the year to hit the trails and immerse myself in the less traveled regions of Ontario.

We are truly blessed in Southern Ontario with an abundance of trail systems that will suit everyone from the most serious hiker who likes to pound off 25k or more a day to the casual trail wanderer who simply likes to spend a few hours walking a trail closer to home.

Don't forget to pack your camera, especially if you're venturing into a new area. You just never know what memories you'll be able to capture. And it's certainly time to start thinking about those fantastic fall vistas as mother nature sheds her summer greenery and dawns the glowing robes of autumn.

Wherever your late summer or fall hikes take you I hope you'll take the time to post a comment on the Southern Ontario Hiking blog and share your tips, trips and adventures with all of us.

Happy trails,
Lloyd